UPDATE: Matsu was closed in June 2026. Finding the entrance to Matsu is easy to miss if you are not paying attention. There is no big sign out front, just a small sign that lets you know you have arrived. Honestly, I missed it the first time. But once you step inside, your Matsu Oceanside tasting menu dining experience starts right away.
Chef William Eick Built Something Real
Chef William Eick got his start as a line cook at Tomiko in Encinitas, then worked his way through Bistro West in Carlsbad and George’s California Modern in La Jolla. He opened 608, his first solo restaurant, on Mission Avenue in Oceanside in 2016, which is where I first met him. He then ran Mission Avenue Bar and Grill before launching Naegi, a fast-casual Japanese fried chicken concept that grew from a pop-up into a brick-and-mortar.
The Matsu Oceanside tasting menu is the culmination of that journey. Eick opened Matsu in fall 2021, blending Japanese technique with Southern California terroir across a 10-course format that has earned him recognition as one of San Diego’s most accomplished chefs.
What's on the Matsu Oceanside Tasting Menu Right Now
Otsumami: This opening course sets the tone right away. A mix of small bites that includes gunkan-maki, mochi fry, and a blend of acorn and camembert.
Kanpachi | Raspberry: The kanpachi is delicate and fresh, with the raspberry adding a light acidity, making a dish that is very precise.
Artichoke | Kohlrabi | Brie: The combination of artichoke, kohlrabi, and brie is rich and exciting. One of my favorite dishes on the menu.
Ebi Tempura | Dynamite | Tentsuyu: This is one of those dishes that is so popular, it has been on the menu since Matsu opened.
Chicken Wing | Imo | Scallop: You get a mix of land and sea, with the chicken wing bringing richness and the scallop adding a clean contrast.
Pork Neck | Apple | Walnut: The pork neck is rich and tender, and the apple and walnut add crunch.
Duck | Carrot | Wasabi: This duck is cooked perfectly, and the carrot adds a natural sweetness.
Wagyu | Onion | Sukiyaki: One of the highlights of the night. The wagyu is rich and buttery, exactly what you want.
Pine | Aloe | Geranium: A reset course. L This clears your palate and prepares you for dessert.
White Chocolate | Miso | Tangerine: Dessert finishes strong as the white chocolate is smooth and rich, and the miso adds depth.
Wagashi: A final touch to close out the experience are small, thoughtful sweets like kokuto jelly, castella cake, and raspberry mochi.
Why the Matsu Oceanside Tasting Menu Is Worth It
I have so much respect for Chef William Eick, and the Matsu Oceanside tasting menu shows exactly why. His food is precise, creative, and built with real care. What he has created at Matsu is special, and it clearly reflects his passion and hard work.
Tips Before You Go
Reserve in advance: walk-ins can sit at the bar if space allows, but the full Matsu Oceanside tasting menu requires a reservation. G
Gluten allergies cannot be accommodated, and dietary restrictions need advance notice.
Ask about the chef’s counter if you want to watch the kitchen work.
And keep an eye on their Instagram for monthly Tsuki nights, a more casual and lower-cost way to experience the restaurant.
